Module Summary

What is communication?

Breaking down the communication process, exploring types of communication, and reflecting on how to communicate effectively as a CA.

As stated in the previous topic, an important part of being a Coaching Assistant is being able to communicate effectively. But what is “communication” exactly?

Communication

The Oxford English Dictionary defines communication as, “The imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium.”

Whereas Business dictionary.com gives the following definition: “[A] two-way process of reaching mutual understanding, in which participants not only exchange (encode-decode) information, news, ideas and feelings but also create and share meaning. In general, communication is a means of connecting people or places.”

The communication process

The communication process is a model that explains, in simple terms, how communication happens between a sender, and a receiver.

• The sender has an idea which they wish to convey to the receiver.
• The sender encodes the idea into a verbal, nonverbal or written message, using their experience and background.
• The message is sent to the receiver via a communication channel, such as a face to face conversation, telephone call, text or email.
• Upon receipt, the receiver decodes the message. The receiver's experience and background will influence how they interpret the message.
• The process of communication is complete when the receiver confirms that they have received and understood the message.

Methods of communication

Communication isn’t just carried out through talking. There are a variety of ways in which we communicate with each other, sometimes without realising we’re doing it!

Verbally

In other words, through talking. The meaning of what we say verbally can differ through varying our tone, pitch and volume.

Writing

Conveying meaning through writing words.

Non-verbally

This means communicating without speaking, for example through:

• facial expressions
• body language
• sign language
• gestures
• images
• demonstrations.

The meaning of a message

You should also remember that communication is a two-way process. You can’t simply give an instruction or piece of information and expect that it’s been understood. Ensure that your message has been understood by the recipient(s) to successfully complete the communication process.

Consider the issues that could arise, if a message that you communicate as a Coaching Assistant isn’t fully understood.

Things to consider

When you communicate as a CA, consider the following questions:

• What is the intended message?
• What exactly are you communicating?
• How do you choose to communicate it?
• What impacts how it is received?
• What impacts how it is understood?
• How do you know the message was understood as you intended?

Asking yourself these questions will help to ensure your message is effectively communicated.